UPDATE

August 1, 2017
I. Science and Service News Updates

II. Resources: Publications, Toolkits, Other Resources

III. Calendar of Events

IV. Calls for Public Input

V. Funding Information

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Prepared by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,

National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health,
Office of Constituency Relations and Public Liaison
SCIENCE AND SERVICE NEWS UPDATES

GUIDELINES PUBLISHED FOR TREATING PANS/PANDAS

An expert panel has published guidelines for treatment of Pediatric Acute Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome
(PANS) and a subset of patients diagnosed with PAN Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infection
(PANDAS). The syndrome of sudden onset obsessive compulsive disorder and/or severe eating restrictions,
and associated characteristic cognitive, behavioral, or neurological symptoms, was first identified in the
1990s by Susan Swedo, M.D., now chief of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) intramural
Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience Branch. In an introduction to a three-part series of articles
published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, July 20, 2017, Swedo, and colleagues,
provide an overview of recommended treatment options, including psychiatric medications, antibiotics, and
anti-inflammatory and immunological therapies.
Science Update: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2017/guidelines-published-for-treating-
pans-pandas.shtml

IMAGING PINPOINTS BRAIN CIRCUITS CHANGED BY PTSD THERAPY; FINDINGS CAN

HELP TARGET TREATMENT, PREDICT OUTCOMES

Using brain imaging to track the effects of treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), NIMH-funded
scientists have identified a brain circuit on which a frequently used and effective psychotherapy (prolonged
exposure) acts to quell symptoms. The findings help explain why the neural circuit identified is a promising
target for additional treatment development, including brain stimulation therapies. In an accompanying
paper, the authors also report that they have identified hallmarks in brain activity of people with PTSD that
predict who will benefit from treatment. Both papers appear online July 18 in the American Journal of
Psychiatry.
Science Update: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2017/imaging-pinpoints-brain-circuits-
changed-by-ptsd-therapy.shtml

SCIENTISTS REPLAY MOVIE ENCODED IN DNA; “MOLECULAR RECORDER” WOULD

REVEAL SECRETS OF BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

For the first time, a primitive movie has been encoded in – and then played back from – DNA in living cells.
Scientists funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) say it is a major step toward a “molecular
recorder” that may someday make it possible to get read-outs, for example, of the changing internal states
of neurons as they develop.
Press Release: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2017/scientists-replay-movie-encoded-in-
dna.shtml
OUR BRAINS HARBOR “RESIDUAL ECHO” OF NEANDERTHAL GENES; FIRST DIRECT
EVIDENCE MAY HOLD CLUES TO DEFICITS SEEN IN MENTAL DISORDERS

NIMH researchers have produced the first direct evidence that parts of our brains implicated in mental
disorders may be shaped by a “residual echo” from our ancient past. The more a person’s genome carries
genetic vestiges of Neanderthals, the more certain parts of his or her brain and skull resemble those of
humans’ evolutionary cousins that went extinct 40,000 years ago, says NIMH’s Karen Berman, M.D. In
particular, the parts of our brains that enable us to use tools and visualize and locate objects owe some of
their lineage to Neanderthal-derived gene variants that are part of our genomes and affect the shape of
those structures – to the extent that an individual harbors the ancient variants. But this may involve trade-
offs with our social brain. The evidence from MRI scans suggests that such Neanderthal-derived genetic
variation may affect the way our brains work today – and may hold clues to understanding deficits seen in
schizophrenia and autism-related disorders, say the researchers.
Science Update: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2017/our-brains-harbor-residual-echo-
of-neanderthal-genes.shtml

CHILDREN’S VISUAL ENGAGEMENT IS HERITABLE AND ALTERED IN AUTISM;

ATTENTION TO MOUTH AND EYES IS INFLUENCED BY GENETIC FACTORS

How children visually engage with others in social situations is a heritable behavior that is altered in children
with autism, according to an NIH-funded study. Autism spectrum disorder affects how a person acts,
communicates, and learns. Reduced attention to other people’s eyes and faces is a behavior associated with
autism, and it is often used to screen for and help diagnose the disorder. In the current study, NIH-funded
researchers explored the potential genetic foundation of this behavior, which can appear by the first six
months of age and persist as children grow older.
Press Release: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/childrens-visual-engagement-heritable-
altered-autism

DISCOVERY DOCUMENTARY FIRST IN HUMAN GIVES AN UP-CLOSE LOOK AT HOW

ADVANCES IN MEDICINE ARE MADE AT THE NIH CLINICAL CENTER

On August 10, Discovery will premiere First in Human, a three-part documentary about the NIH Clinical
Center, providing an unprecedented, first-hand look at the successes and setbacks that are a part of
developing brand-new medicines that may ultimately benefit millions worldwide. Over a period of a year,
film crews embedded within the hospital follow four patients who volunteered to participate in
experimental treatments in the hopes they will help them, or others in the future. The series also follows the
dedicated doctors and nurses who carry out the research while caring for the patients.
Press Release: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/discovery-documentary-first-human-
gives-close-look-how-advances-medicine-are-made-nih-clinical-center
NIH-FUNDED MOUSE STUDY SHEDS LIGHT ON NEURAL RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH
PRENATAL ALCOHOL EXPOSURE

Prenatal exposure to even low doses of alcohol may lead to severe and highly variable deficits in the brain of
a fetus, according to a new study conducted in mice. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism-
supported researchers report that the unpredictable nature of the deficits may be due to inconsistencies in
how fetal brain cells activate a protective response to alcohol and other harmful compounds. The new
findings may help explain the range of behavioral and learning deficits and other symptoms observed in
individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other congenital brain disorders.
Press Release: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-mouse-study-sheds-
light-neural-risks-associated-prenatal

NEW REPORT SHOWS THAT OPIOID MISUSE INCREASES AMONG OLDER ADULTS

A new spotlight report by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Substance Abuse and Mental
Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that opioid misuse among adults aged 50 or older in
2014 was higher than 2002. The misuse of opioids includes either the use of heroin, or the nonmedical use
of prescription pain relievers.
Press Release: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/201707260800

SAMHSA REPORT SHOWS THE USAGE OF NON-MEDICAL PAIN RELIEVERS ACROSS THE
NATION; PRESCRIPTION DRUG MISUSE IS STILL ONE OF THE MOST PREVALENT ILLICIT
DRUG PROBLEMS IN THE NATION

A new SAMHSA report indicates that 4.31 percent of people aged 12 or older in the U.S. used prescription
pain relievers non-medically in the past year. When taken without a physician's direction, prescription
opioid pain relievers can lead to a higher risk of serious adverse consequences such as substance use
disorder, overdose, or death.
Press Release: https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/201707130900

HHS AWARDS 16 GRANTS TO PREVENT OPIOID MISUSE AMONG WOMEN AND GIRLS

As part of the Administration’s efforts to combat drug addiction and the opioid epidemic, the HHS Office on
Women’s Health (OWH) announced 16 awards to public and private nonprofit entities across the nation.
Sixteen projects covering 16 cities in 12 states were selected to address the primary and/or secondary
prevention of prescription and illegal opioid misuse by women across the lifespan. Funds will be used to
reach girls aged 10-17 years, women of reproductive age, and women aged 50 years and older in
underserved populations.
Press Release: https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2017/07/25/hhs-awards-16-grants-prevent-opioid-
misuse-among-women-and-girls.html
CDC AWARDS $12 MILLION TO HELP STATES FIGHT OPIOID OVERDOSE EPIDEMIC;
SUPPORT WILL STRENGTHEN STATE EFFORTS TO PREVENT AND TRACK OPIOID
OVERDOSES

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) awarded more than $12 million to 23 states and the
District of Columbia to support their responses to the opioid overdose epidemic. The funds will be used to
strengthen prevention efforts and better track opioid-related overdoses. CDC expects to announce
additional funding awards for state opioid overdose prevention programs later in the summer.
Press Release: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p0717-opioid-funding.html

ALL OF US RESEARCH PROGRAM LAUNCHES WORKING GROUP ON CHILD ENROLLMENT

This month the All of Us Research Program established a new working group of its advisory panel to help
inform the program’s plans for enrollment of children. This is the first of two working groups dedicated to
this effort. This initial working group will focus on the kinds of research projects that would be enabled by
having children of diverse backgrounds included in the All of Us Research Program. A second working group
to follow will examine the practical considerations of child enrollment and data collection involving children.
The Child Enrollment Scientific Vision Working Group includes advisory panel members, representatives
from All of Us health care provider organizations, NIH staff, and other outside experts. During the course of
their work, which is expected to last approximately three months, the group will announce opportunities for
the public to provide input.
Press Release: https://allofus.nih.gov/news-events-and-media/announcements/all-us-research-program-
launches-working-group-child-enrollment

THE ALL OF US RESEARCH PROGRAM ANNOUNCES FIRST COMMUNITY PARTNER

AWARDS; FOUR ORGANIZATIONS TO SUPPORT ENGAGEMENT OF DIVERSE
COMMUNITIES IN AMBITIOUS RESEARCH EFFORT

The NIH announced its first four community partner awards to begin building a national network of trusted
leaders to inform diverse communities about the opportunity to join the All of Us Research Program, part of
the Precision Medicine Initiative. This initial group of awardees will receive a combined $1.7 million this
fiscal year, with future support planned pending the availability of funds. These awardees will raise
awareness about the program among seniors, Hispanics and Latinos, African Americans, and the lesbian,
gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community, to complement other outreach efforts of the
program. NIH anticipates making additional funding awards for community partners in the future, drawing
on the lessons learned from this initial set of awardees.
Press Release: https://allofus.nih.gov/news-events-and-media/announcements/all-us-research-program-
announces-first-community-partner-awards
RESOURCES: PUBLICATIONS, TOOLKITS, OTHER RESOURCES

NEW FROM NIMH

WEBINAR: RDOC - FEAR AND ANXIETY: FROM MECHANISMS TO IMPLEMENTATION

Watch the most recent webinar from the NIMH Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) Unit, Delaware Project,
and Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies to see the role of fear and anxiety in disorders such
as phobias and depression. Presenters discussed these topics from different perspectives, including basic
laboratory research, treatment in clinics, and graduate school instruction for clinicians.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2017/webinar-rdoc-fear-amp-anxiety-from-mechanisms-
to-implementation.shtml

NEW FROM NIH

TWITTER CHAT DISCUSSION: ADDRESSING THE MENTAL HEALTH OF ADULTS IN MINORITY GROUPS AT
THE COMMUNITY LEVEL

On July 12, the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) hosted a Twitter chat
with Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the HHS Office of Minority Health (OMH), and SAMHSA on addressing
minority mental health at the community level. Check out the full discussion on Storify.
https://storify.com/NIMHD/minority-mentalhealth-month-2017

MINORITIES AND MENTAL HEALTH: MOVING BEYOND STIGMA

This NIMHD blog post reviews the research needed to address mental health disparities.
http://nimhd.blogs.govdelivery.com/2017/07/13/minorities-and-mental-health-moving-beyond-stigma/

NHBLI: HEART DISEASE AND DEPRESSION: A TWO-WAY RELATIONSHIP

This National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute spotlight reviews what research is discovering about the
relationships between depression and heart disease.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/spotlight/success/heart-disease-and-depression-two-way-relationship

SLEEP AND AGING TIPS

This National Institute of Aging resource offers tips for getting a good night’s sleep. Follow a regular sleep
schedule. Go to sleep and get up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Develop a bedtime routine.
Take time to relax before bedtime each night. Exercise at regular times each day, but not within three hours
of bedtime. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep
NIDA DIRECTOR’S BLOG: CONCERNING LINK BETWEEN INADEQUATE SLEEP AND ADOLESCENT
SUBSTANCE USE

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Director Nora Volkow blogs about the link researchers have found
between insufficient sleep and a range of adverse outcomes in adolescents, including obesity, poor school
performance, and behavioral problems, including substance use. Dr. Volkow suggests that parents should be
aware of how important it is for their teenage children to get a full night’s sleep every night, as a protective
factor against substance use as well as other adverse impacts on their health and success.
https://www.drugabuse.gov/about-nida/noras-blog/2017/07/concerning-link-between-inadequate-
sleep-adolescent-substance-use

NIDA: INTENSIVE INTERVENTION INCREASES CLINICAL ADHERENCE TO OPIOID PRESCRIBING

GUIDELINES IN CHRONIC CARE

While the CDC has issued clinical guidelines for chronic opioid therapy, these guidelines are not followed by
many medical practices. A NIDA-funded, randomized controlled trial that compared two organizational
strategies to improve adherence to guidelines suggests that a multi-component approach is more effective
than electronic decision tools alone. The more intensive intervention included a nurse care manager, a suite
of online tools, and advice and assistance from an expert in opiate prescribing. While the multi-component
intervention improved adherence to the guideline-recommended monitoring of patients with chronic pain,
it did not decrease early opioid refills. Further research is needed to determine whether guideline
adherence reduces opioid-related risks. https://www.drugabuse.gov/news-events/news-
releases/2017/07/intensive-intervention-increases-clinical-adherence-to-opioid-prescribing-guidelines-in-
chronic-care

NICHD DIRECTOR’S CORNER: HUMAN-ANIMAL INTERACTIONS: THERAPEUTIC AND SURPRISING

NICHD Director Diana Bianchi describes research in the Institute’s portfolio studying how human-animal
interactions influence child health and behavior, and impact overall quality of life.
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/about/overview/directors_corner/Pages/default.aspx

NEW FROM SAMHSA

HOW DISASTERS AFFECT PEOPLE OF LOW SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS

This research bulletin explores how people living in poverty, with low incomes, and of low socioeconomic
status (SES) experience disasters, and aims to help disaster behavioral health officials include and account
for these individuals in disaster planning and preparedness, response, and recovery. The issue also features
recommendations for policy changes to foster increased resilience for low SES individuals and communities.
https://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/disaster-behavioral-health-resources/supplemental-research-bulletin
TRENDS IN SUBSTANCE USE DISORDERS AMONG ADULTS AGED 18 OR OLDER

This report highlights the number of American adults with substance use disorders in the past year and
trends in substance use disorders between 2002 and 2014.
https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/report_2790/ShortReport-2790.html

BLOG POST: BRINGING GREATER AWARENESS TO AANHPI BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) often are the least likely of racial and
ethnic groups to seek mental health care. Research indicates that they do not seek mental health services
due to risk factors like lack of insurance, not knowing where to find appropriate services, cultural norms,
language barriers, and negative attitudes towards seeking help. In recognition of National Minority Mental
Health Awareness Month, SAMHSA has developed two briefs on the behavioral health of AANHPI boys and
young men: A Snapshot of Behavioral Health Issues for Asian American/Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
Boys and Men and Advancing Best Practices in Behavioral Health for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and
Pacific Islander Boys and Men. https://blog.samhsa.gov/2017/07/20/bringing-greater-awareness-to-
aanhpi-behavioral-health/#.WXxzWITyt0w

FIRST RESPONDER: USING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH APPROACHES TO IMPROVE SAFETY FOR ALL

SAMHSA has developed a training course for first responders to provide the knowledge necessary to support
individuals in crisis while maintaining safety. Creating Safe Scenes is a free online training course featuring
interactive elements to train first responders to achieve five goals: understand the basics of behavioral
health crises, including factors that may lead to crises; make a safe connection with an individual
experiencing a crisis; use de-escalation strategies as needed when working with an individual in crisis;
develop community networks and share referral resources; and increase the safety of everyone on scene,
including themselves and individuals in crisis. https://blog.samhsa.gov/2017/07/13/first-responders-using-
behavioral-health-approaches-to-improve-safety-for-all/

FACTSHEET: INTERVENTION FOR FAMILIES IMPACTED BY TRAUMA

SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Network offers this new factsheet on Strengthening Family
Coping Resources (SFCR) which provides accepted, empirically-supported trauma treatment for families
living in traumatic contexts with the goal of reducing the symptoms of PTSD and other trauma-related
disorders in children and adult caregivers. Since most families living in traumatic contexts contend with on-
going stresses and threats, SFCR is also designed to increase coping resources in children, adult caregivers,
and in the family system to prevent relapse and re-exposure.
http://www.nctsn.org/sites/default/files/assets/pdfs/sfcr_general.pdf
NEW FROM CDC

FREE CONTINUING EDUCATION ON PRESCRIBING OPIOIDS

CDC presents a free continuing education activity on opioid prescribing in partnership with Medscape.
Continuing Medical Education, American Board of Internal Medicine Maintenance of Certification, and
Continuing Education credits (CEC) are all available for this activity. This activity is intended for primary care
clinicians, nurses, and other clinicians prescribing opioids for chronic pain outside of active cancer
treatment, palliative care, and end-of-life care. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/index.html

OPIOID PRESCRIBING: WHERE YOU LIVE MATTERS

The amount of opioids prescribed in the U.S. peaked in 2010 and then decreased each year through 2015;
however, prescribing remains high and varies widely from county to county. In 2015, six times more opioids
per resident were dispensed in the highest-prescribing counties than in the lowest-prescribing counties.
County-level characteristics such as rural versus urban, income level, and demographics, only explained
about a third of the differences. This suggests that people receive different care depending on where they
live. https://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/opioids/index.html

MAKING THE CASE: ENGAGING BUSINESSES IN CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PREVENTION EFFORTS

Learn how public health professionals can communicate the important role businesses have in helping stop
child abuse and neglect before they start. Topics include how to talk about child abuse and neglect, ways
businesses can help prevent this problem, benefits to partnering with businesses, skills for developing
business partnerships, and roles businesses play in public health. https://vetoviolence.cdc.gov/apps/child-
abuse-neglect-biz/

GAO: MEDICAID EXPANSION: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TREATMENT USE IN SELECTED

STATES IN 2014

Behavioral health conditions disproportionately affect low-income people. Some states expanded Medicaid
to cover low-income adults, as authorized by the Affordable Care Act, so the Government Accountability
Office (GAO) examined how many people in this expansion group received behavioral health treatment. In
four states—Iowa, New York, Washington, and West Virginia—the GAO found that in 2014 that up to one in
three Medicaid expansion enrollees received behavioral health treatment; psychotherapy visits and
antidepressant medications were most commonly used; and in three states, enrollment in Medicaid likely
increased access to this treatment (most enrollees in the 4th state already had access to it).
http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-17-529
NEW FROM HHS

OPIOID USE, MISUSE, AND OVERDOSE IN WOMEN

The HHS OWH released this new report that examines the prevention, treatment, and recovery issues for
women who misuse or overdose on opioids. The report also presents findings and takeaways from the
Office’s national and regional opioid meetings held in 2016.
https://www.womenshealth.gov/files/documents/final-report-opioid-508.pdf

BLOG POST: CAN KINDNESS OVERCOME BULLYING?

Being kind means that you think about the needs and concerns of others. Kind people volunteer, help
others, and think about bigger issues that affect their communities. Unfortunately, many schools respond to
negative behaviors such as bullying with punishment, which is thought to reduce or eliminate such
behaviors, however, it may make better sense to focus on teaching and modeling pro-social behavior, like
teaching kindness. This StopBullying.gov blog post describes key elements in teaching kindness, ways to
teach kindness, and the impact of teaching kindness. https://www.stopbullying.gov/blog/2017/07/26/can-
kindness-overcome-bullying.html

NEW FROM THE VA

PTSD RESEARCH QUARTERLY: PATIENT ENGAGEMENT IN PTSD TREATMENT

This issue of the PTSD Research Quarterly reviews the important emerging research on factors affecting
patient engagement and interventions designed to improve retention of patients who begin PTSD
treatment. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/newsletters/research-quarterly/V28N3.pdf

NEW GUIDELINES FOR MANAGING PTSD

A panel of experts from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Defense developed
the latest guideline for managing PTSD and acute stress disorder. The 2017 Clinical Practice Guideline
includes the most effective treatments for PTSD, rated both for the quality of the clinical studies and the
strength of the recommendations.
https://www.healthquality.va.gov/guidelines/MH/ptsd/VADoDPTSDCPGPatientSummaryFinal.pdf
EVENTS

WEBINAR: ASSESSING AND REDUCING VIOLENCE IN MILITARY VETERANS

AUGUST 2, 2017, 11:00AM-12:00 PM ET

This VA webinar will review the risk factors shown to relate to violence in Veteran populations and discuss
the complex relationships between PTSD, alcohol misuse, and violent behavior. It will also cover the
protective factors associated with lower odds of aggression in Veterans, which can point to psychosocial
rehabilitation interventions for risk management. Finally, the presenter will outline a recovery-oriented and
empirically-structured process for assessing and reducing violence risk in clinical practice.
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7254228459052777985

WEBINAR: THE ROLE OF COMMUNITY AND FAMILY SUPPORTS IN HELPING PEOPLE

IMPROVE THEIR COMPLEX HEALTH CONDITIONS

AUGUST 2, 2017, 1:00-2:00 PM ET

This SAMHSA Recovery to Practice webinar will draw from the practical experience of the presenters to
explore the importance of the intentional family - those who support our wellness; discuss how community
membership and natural supports impact health outcomes and the process of recovery; identify innovative
ways to integrate social, family, and community resources to support the needs of both the person and the
family; and discuss the whole family approach to services and supports. https://events-
na2.adobeconnect.com/content/connect/c1/916603251/en/events/event/shared/1065850142/event_la
nding.html?sco-id=1065859592&_charset_=utf-8

WEBINAR: MENTAL HEALTH DISPARITIES RESEARCH AT NIMH: BUILDING RESILIENCE

TO REDUCE SUICIDE IN ARTIC COMMUNITIES

AUGUST 3, 2017, 3:00-4:30 PM ET

This NIMH webinar will present research that showcases two different community-based approaches that
aim to build resilience in indigenous communities with the hope of reducing suicide in the Artic.
http://nimhhealthdisparities.thebizzellgroup.com/
WEBINAR: UNDERSTANDING THE OPIOID CRISIS: WHAT'S AT THE HEART OF THE
MATTER?

AUGUST 9, 2017, 12:00-1:15 PM ET

National attention is focused on the opioid crisis and communities are struggling to respond. In this webinar,
SAMHSA and CDC staff will share data and the science about opioid addiction, and dispel some common
misconceptions about treatment and recovery.
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/1331845416025955075

WEBINAR: THE ROLE OF FAMILY CAREGIVING IN CHRONIC ILLNESS: THREE STUDIES

AUGUST 9, 2017, 3:00-4:00 PM ET

This VA webinar will summarize findings from three studies, including the roles, motivations, and barriers to
engaging family caregivers in the chronic illness self-management from the perspectives of patients, family
caregivers, and clinical providers. The presentation will also review a pilot intervention study intended to
improve collaboration and communication between patients and family caregivers to enhance self-
management. https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/398592040841403907

WEBINAR: UPDATE ON THE VA’S NEW ACTIVITIES AND DIRECTION

AUGUST 14, 2017, 2:00-3:00 PM ET

This SAMHSA webinar will provide a policy-level overview of the VA’s recent efforts to increase access to
behavioral health care and address suicide prevention. Areas that will be covered include the expansion of
emergency mental health coverage to Veterans with other than honorable discharges, the initiative to
eliminate Veteran suicide, MyVA community collaborations and partnerships, changes to the Choice
program, plans for the adoption of a new electronic health record system, and other behavioral health
access initiatives.
https://smvftacenter.prainc.com/content/smvf%20ta%20center%20webinar%20update%20va%20activiti
es
WEBINAR: THERE IS HOPE: TREATMENT, RECOVERY, AND PREVENTION

AUGUST 16, 2017, 12:00-1:15 PM ET

The HHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, in collaboration with SAMHSA and CDC,
presents this webinar reviewing early intervention and treatment, and the essential role the community
plays in recovery support and prevention. The webinar will also address the impact of adverse childhood
experiences on the development of a substance use disorder, and how upstream preventative action can
restore hope and a brighter and healthier future for generations to come.
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/958872380186877187

WEBINAR: SUCCESS STORIES: IMPLEMENTING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH IN A SPECIALTY

CARE SETTING

AUGUST 16, 2017, 2:00-3:30 PM ET

Join the SAMHSA-Health Resources and Services Administration Center for Integrated Health Services for a
webinar to learn about a successful partnership between a hospital system and an oncology practice, which
has woven behavioral health screening and treatment into their practice, and the lessons they have learned
along the way. https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1155302&tp_key=d38b65ac9b

SAMHSA'S 2017 VOICE AWARDS

AUGUST 16, 2017, 7:30 PM PT, LOS ANGELES, CA

SAMHSA's 2017 Voice Awards honor people in recovery and their family members who are community
champions seeking to improve the lives of people with mental illnesses and addictions. The Voice Awards
also recognizes television and film productions that educate the public about behavioral health and
showcase that recovery is real and possible. This year, the Voice Awards is putting the spotlight on
individuals and entertainment productions that provide hope and support to those past and present service
members who have faced mental health and addiction challenges. Reserve your seat (whether in person or
online) no later than Friday, August 4. https://www.samhsa.gov/voice-awards
WEBINAR: COMMERCIAL SEXUAL EXPLOITATION: ASSESSMENT AND IDENTIFICATION
IN MENTORING PROGRAMS

AUGUST 22, 2017, 1:00-2:30 PM ET

Mentoring programs are uniquely positioned to identify children and youth who have been subjugated to
commercial sexual exploitation, due to the relationship-driven nature of services. In this OJJDP webinar,
participants will explore indicators of commercial sexual exploitation and will walk through real-life
scenarios to assess risk. It will also provide the tools and resources to integrate the assessment of
commercial sexual exploitation into youth development programs. https://events-
na8.adobeconnect.com/content/connect/c1/1110525827/en/events/event/shared/default_template_si
mple/event_registration.html?sco-id=2126458003&_charset_=utf-8

WEBINAR: PEER SUPPORT ROLES IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE SETTINGS

AUGUST 22, 2017, 3:00-4:00 PM ET

Peer support is implemented in many ways and in many different settings. Even within criminal justice
settings, there is a wide spectrum of peer support roles. Understanding the many different peer support
roles in criminal justice settings can be challenging. This webinar, presented by SAMHSA's GAINS Center, will
highlight some of the peer support roles that exist at each intercept of the Sequential Intercept Model, and
provide guidance to agencies and organizations seeking to implement or expand peer support services in
criminal justice settings. https://t.e2ma.net/click/kpq0k/4ce6po/o8b5yc

WEBINAR: MENTAL HEALTH ECONOMICS: ANALYZING VALUE

AUGUST 22, 2017, 9:00-10:30 AM ET

This NIMH Global Mental Health webinar is aimed primarily at researchers and health care practitioners
interested in addressing or better understanding issues of cost, cost-effectiveness and value in their work.
There is an increasing expectation and need to demonstrate not only the health and other impacts of
interventions and innovations in health, but also assess what it takes in terms of resources to develop,
maintain or scale-up an intervention, and be able to link resources and costs to primary outcomes of
interest. Accordingly, the webinar will start with an overview of key principles of health economic analysis,
before moving into a presentation of analytical steps, methods and data requirements. Participants should
come away with a better grasp of why economic analysis is needed, what is required to do it and how to go
about it. http://nimhglobalwebinars.thebizzellgroup.com/aug22
WEBINAR: TREATMENT TARGETS, TARGET ENGAGEMENT, AND TARGET POPULATIONS
IN MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH TO IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH: EXAMPLES
FROM THE FIELD

AUGUST 23, 2017, 9:00-10:30 AM ET

In this NIMH Global Mental Health webinar, NIMH program officers will present a brief overview of the
experimental therapeutics paradigm, which provides a framework to understand targets and mechanisms of
action for all NIMH-funded clinical trial research, including mental health services research. Drs. Mary McKay
and Mary Acri will then discuss two of their ongoing and high priority NIMH-funded research studies in the
context of the experimental therapeutic paradigm: 1) Family Groups for Urban Youth with Disruptive
Behavior and 2) African Regional Research Partnerships for Scaling Up Child Mental Health Evidence-Based
Practices. http://nimhglobalwebinars.thebizzellgroup.com/aug23

WEBINAR: CULTURAL, HISTORICAL, AND GENDER ISSUES: UNDERSTANDING THE

IMPACT OF HISTORICAL TRAUMA ON COMMUNITIES

AUGUST 28, 2017, 1:00-2:30 PM ET

This webinar hosted by SAMHSA’s National Center for Trauma-Informed Care and Alternatives to Seclusion
and Restraint will address historical trauma in communities and identify strategies that work to address the
importance of understanding intergenerational trauma.
https://www.nasmhpd.org/content/community-vln

WEBINAR: CULTURAL, HISTORICAL, AND GENDER ISSUES: THE ALI FORNEY CENTER

AUGUST 28, 2017, 3:00-4:00 PM ET

This SAMHSA webinar will feature insights from staff at the Ali Forney Center (AFC) in New York, NY, the
largest program dedicated to meeting the needs of LGBTQ homeless youth in the nation. AFC provides a
comprehensive range of services to LGBTQ homeless and street-based youth, including a drop-in center,
mobile outreach, and emergency housing. Their Peer Educator program was created based on the
recognition that homeless youth are most likely to trust outreach workers who have been formerly
homeless themselves. In addition, their community outreach program is designed to help mental health
providers to serve LGBTQ youth in a more culturally-competent manner.
https://www.nasmhpd.org/content/crisis-services-vln
WEBINAR SAVE THE DATE: MENTAL HEALTH DISPARITIES RESEARCH AT NIMH:
COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH TO REDUCE THE BURDEN OF SUICIDE IN TRIBAL YOUTH

AUG 29, 2017, 3:00-4:30 PM ET

Save the date for the NIMH’s next webinar on mental health disparities research. The webinar will focus on
the NIMH-funded hubs for collaborative research to reduce the burden the suicide in tribal youth.
Registration forthcoming.

VIRTUAL EVENT: ANNUAL SUMMIT: ADVANCES IN THE STATE OF THE SCIENCE AND
BEST PRACTICE

SEPTEMBER 19-21, 2017

The 2017 Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury Annual Summit
will connect health care professionals, researchers, and academicians involved in all aspects of psychological
health and traumatic brain injury care for the military community. This year's event will offer real-time
access to up to 28 hours of state-of-the-science programming. Join others from around the globe to
participate in panel discussions and question and answer sessions, network with professionals and peers,
visit the virtual exhibit hall for resources, and earn up to 14 CECs during the virtual event.
http://dcoe.mil/training/events
CLINICAL TRIAL PARTICIPATION NEWS

NIH RESEARCH STUDY: DEPRESSION IN TEENAGERS

Study seeks to understand the causes of depression in teenagers. As part of a larger study looking at mood
dysregulation, this part of the study is currently recruiting medically healthy teenagers ages 12 to 17, who
meet the criteria for major depressive disorder, and are in treatment with a physician. Study participation
begins with an initial 1-day evaluation. Research visits may include annual outpatient visits up to age 25,
and/or a 4- to 15-week inpatient treatment. Call 1-301-496-8381 [TTY: 1-866-411-1010], Email
depressedkids@mail.nih.gov

Department of Health & Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health
http://go.usa.gov/x8Xmk

Resource Listing or Facebook:

NIH Research Study: Understanding the causes of depression in teenagers. Currently recruiting ages 12-17.
Initial 1-day evaluation for outpatient visits annually and/or 4- to 15-week inpatient treatment.
Call 1-301-496-8381 [TTY: 1-866-411-1010] or Email depressedkids@mail.nih.gov
http://go.usa.gov/x8Xmk

Department of Health & Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health

Twitter:

Teenagers with Depression: NIH Research study currently recruiting ages 12-17 for outpatient visits &
treatment to understand the causes of depression. http://go.usa.gov/x8Xmk

THE NIH NEUROBIOBANK: ADDRESSING THE URGENT NEED FOR BRAIN DONATION

The Directors of the National Institute on Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), NIMH, and
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke discuss the urgent need for brain donation. When
unraveling the complexities of neurological, neurodevelopmental, and neuropsychiatric disorders, there is
no substitute for studying human brain tissue. Brain donation is critically important, now more than ever.
The more brain tissue available for research, the faster science can advance toward a better understanding
of how to prevent, diagnose, treat, and cure disorders of the human brain. The NIH NeuroBioBank is a
central resource to coordinate brain donation and the distribution of tissue to qualified researchers. These
efforts depend on the availability of post-mortem brain tissue. Yet, relative to donations of other organs for
transplantation and research, brain donation is severely lagging, both from healthy people, from people
with brain disease, and especially from children. Through partnerships with not-for-profit organizations like
the Brain Donor Project, NIH aims to raise awareness about the importance of post-mortem brain donation
and to simplify the process of becoming a donor. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-
news/2017/the-nih-neurobiobank-addressing-the-urgent-need-for-brain-donation.shtml
CALLS FOR PUBLIC INPUT

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: RIGOR, REPRODUCIBILITY, AND STATISTICAL POWER IN

MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH

NIMH seeks input on the issue of statistical power in studies using human subjects, with the goal of
improving the rigor and reproducibility of mental health research. While the NIH has provided guidance for
improving both transparency and scientific rigor to foster reproducibility in biomedical research, there is no
specific information relevant to statistical power. As such, the NIMH seeks input on the issue of statistical
power in the context of human subjects research designed to elucidate mechanisms of disease, or to
develop therapies for mental illness, including, but not limited to, those studies that employ neuroimaging
techniques. Given the high importance and complexity of the issue of statistical power in clinical trials, the
NIMH seeks guidance on approaches to improve attention to statistical power in mental health research.
Comments accepted until August 6, 2017. https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-MH-17-
036.html

COMMENTS SOUGHT FOR AHRQ EFFECTIVE HEALTH CARE PROGRAM REPORT

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s Effective Health Care Program encourages the public to
participate in the development of its research projects. The Program uses these comments to help focus its
research and ensure that the final comparative effectiveness reviews answer the most important questions
that clinicians, patients, consumers, and policymakers have about a given treatment, test, or procedure. The
Program is currently seeking comments for:

COMMENT ON KEY QUESTIONS: HARMS OF FIRST-LINE DEPRESSION TREATMENT IN OLDER ADULTS

(OPEN FOR COMMENT THROUGH AUGUST 10, 2017)
https://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/research-available-for-comment/comment-key-
questions/?pageaction=displayquestions&topicid=684&questionset=302

COMMENTS SOUGHT ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER

PARITY IMPLEMENTATION AND THE 21ST CENTURY CURES ACT PART 38

The Departments of HHS, Labor, and the Treasury are seeking comments on how to improve disclosure
under the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MPHAEA) and other laws, as required by the 21st
Century Cures Act. As part of the solicitation of comments, the Departments are releasing and seeking
comments on a draft model form that participants, enrollees, or their authorized representatives could use
to request information from their health plan about non-quantitative treatment limitations that affect their
mental health or substance use disorder benefits. In addition, the Departments request comments on
whether any additional clarification is needed regarding how the requirements of MHPAEA apply to
treatment for eating disorders. Comments are accepted through September 13, 2017.
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USSAMHSA/bulletins/1a3047d
BECOME A GRANT REVIEWER: SEEKING SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS

The HHS OMH is looking for Subject Matter Experts to serve as reviewers of applications submitted to its
Empowered Communities for a Healthier Nation Initiative (ECI) competitive grant program. The ECI is
intended to provide support for minority and/or disadvantaged communities disproportionately impacted
by the opioid epidemic, childhood/adolescent obesity, or serious mental illness (SMI). ECI is looking for
professionals with a well-documented history as a subject matter expert in the area(s) of opioid abuse,
childhood/adolescent obesity, or SMI to register to serve as grant reviewers.
https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=1&lvlid=5

PUBLIC COMMENT FOR HEALTHY PEOPLE 2030

HHS is soliciting written comments on the proposed framework for Healthy People 2030, developed by the
Secretary’s Advisory Committee on National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Objectives for 2030.
The framework refers to the Healthy People 2030 vision, mission, foundational principles, plan of action, and
overarching goals that will guide the selection and prioritization of objectives for Healthy People 2030.
Members of the public—including individuals, stakeholders, and organizations—are invited to provide
comments on the Healthy People 2030 framework. This round of public comment will be open until
September 29, 2017 at 5:00 PM ET. https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/About-Healthy-
People/Development-Healthy-People-2030/Public-Comment
FUNDING INFORMATION

INTEGRATED SERVICES FOR VICTIMS PROGRAM: INCREASING ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH

SERVICES FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME
https://ojp.gov/ovc/grants/pdftxt/FY2017-V21-Mental-Health-508.pdf

DEVELOPING FUTURE VICTIM SPECIALISTS FOR INDIAN COUNTRY

https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=295019

A NATIONAL TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INITIATIVE TO IMPROVE POLICE-BASED

RESPONSES TO PEOPLE WITH MENTAL HEALTH DISORDERS AND INTELLECTUAL AND
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
https://www.bja.gov/Funding/LEMHTTA17.pdf

BRAIN INITIATIVE: NEW CONCEPTS AND EARLY-STAGE RESEARCH FOR LARGE-SCALE RECORDING
AND MODULATION IN THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-EY-17-002.html

FIRST IN HUMAN AND EARLY STAGE CLINICAL TRIALS OF NOVEL INVESTIGATIONAL DRUGS OR
DEVICES FOR PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS
https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PAR-17-327.html

The Outreach Partnership Program is a nationwide outreach initiative of the National Institute of Mental
Health (NIMH) that enlists state and national organizations in a partnership to increase the public’s access to
science-based mental health information through partnerships with national and state organizations. For
more information about the program please visit: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/outreach/partnership-
program/index.shtml. To subscribe to receive the Update every two weeks, go to:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/outreach/partnership-program/news-and-updates-from-the-program.shtml.

The information provided in the Update is intended for use by NIMH Outreach Partners, National Partners and their associates for
the express purpose of exchanging information that may be useful in the development of state and local mental health outreach,
information, education and partnership programs.